The many book stores dotted along this strip can provide hours of inspiration. Aside from those selling new books, several specialise in second-hand and antiquarian books.

Slightly biased as this is where I live, but Stoke Newington is great place to spend lazy saturday / sunday afternoons getting sloshed with friends. There are 10 + pubs within walking distance who all are great places for one reason or another. I'll pick out the White Hart for its huge beer garden...

Bordering the west side of Victoria Park, Regent's Canal serves as a pleasant walking or riding track, particularly on weekends when it's at it's quietest.

I probably spend too much time here but I love it for the atmosphere. During the day it’s quite empty. The proprietor is often dozing in the back corner and you can read for hours with just one cup of tea without anyone bothering you. It picks up in the evenings as all the regulars pile in with pre-bought bottles of wine.

A very good selection of non-fiction, essays, and rare books. The Japanese book collection is gorgeous!